Unitil(US:UTL)2026-02-10 20:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company reported adjusted earnings of $53.3 million, or $3.16 per share, representing an increase of $0.19 per share, or 6.4% over 2024 [4][9] - The company expects 2026 earnings to be in the range of $3.20-$3.36 per share, with a midpoint of $3.28 per share, indicating a 6.1% increase compared to the midpoint of 2025 guidance [5][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric adjusted gross margin for 2025 was $114.6 million, an increase of $7.3 million compared to 2024, driven by higher distribution rates and customer growth [10] - Gas adjusted gross margin for 2025 was $199.1 million, an increase of $32.2 million compared to 2024, attributed to acquisitions and higher rates [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added approximately 600 electric customers and 15,900 new gas customers in 2025, including 8,900 from Bangor Natural Gas and 6,500 from Maine Natural Gas [10][11] - Maine has the highest percentage of homes heated with fuel oil in the nation, presenting a significant opportunity for natural gas conversions [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company expanded its gas operations in Maine by acquiring two distribution companies, positioning itself as the largest gas utility in the state [4][6] - A five-year capital investment plan through 2030 has been updated to approximately $1.2 billion, reflecting a 20% increase compared to the previous plan [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver value for stakeholders, emphasizing investments in low-risk regulated assets [19] - The company remains focused on continuous improvement in service reliability and customer satisfaction, achieving an overall customer satisfaction rate of 87% [8] Other Important Information - The company plans to file a base rate case for Bangor Natural Gas and Maine Natural Gas in 2027, with final rate decisions expected in 2028 [7] - The quarterly dividend was increased by $0.025 per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $1.90 per share, a 5.6% increase compared to 2025 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for future earnings growth? - The company anticipates 2026 earnings to be in the range of $3.20-$3.36 per share, with a midpoint of $3.28 per share, indicating a 6.1% growth compared to 2025 [17] Question: How are the recent acquisitions expected to impact revenue? - The acquisitions of Bangor Natural Gas and Maine Natural Gas are expected to contribute approximately $29 million in annual distribution revenues [6]